Is Ship Island open to the public?

Ship Island is only accessible by boat. A public ferry boat is available between March and October from Gulfport, Mississippi. The ferry departure pier is located at the Gulfport’s Jones Park 1022 23rd Avenue, Gulfport, MS 39501. A public ferry boat is also available between May and August from Biloxi, Mississippi.

Can you drink on Ship Island?

On the beach, alcohol and food are allowed—but no glass containers. A small cooler is a smart carry-on for the ferry. Shelling, hiking and kite-flying are other popular ways to spend your time on Ship Island.

Why is Ship Island closed?

Mississippi’s 10th natural disaster in 2020, Hurricane Zeta, hit Ship Island on Oct. 28, tore up the piers where the Ship Island Excursion ferries land and damaged other facilities. That canceled the end of the 2020 season and the excursions are on hold for awhile this spring until the repairs are made.

Can you drive a boat to Ship Island?

West Ship Island is accessible only by private boat or the seasonal ferry service that runs from Gulfport, Miss., from March through the end of October. A privately-run ferry service shuttles day trippers to West Ship Island daily from March through the end of October.

Do people live on Horn Island?

Today the island has a small population of approximately 650 people, with a focus on pearling and fishing. Horn Island is home to the only airport in the Torres Strait Island group, as most of the other inhabited islands only have an airstrip.

How long is the ferry ride to Ship Island?

approximately 1 hour
How long is the ferry ride to Ship Island? The ferry ride takes approximately 1 hour.

Are there bathrooms on Ship Island?

Credit cards accepted on boats and Island Snack Bar. Restrooms and drinking water are available on the boats. Island restrooms, showers, drinking water, and shaded picnic tables provided.

How much it cost to go to Ship Island?

No time is allowed on Ship Island. The cost is $15 per person; 2 and under are free. Limited seating available. Strongly suggest you call 228-864-1014 between 9:30am and 12 noon to check availability.

How far offshore is Ship Island?

approximately 11 miles
Ship Island is approximately 11 miles offshore.

Does Ship Island have bathrooms?

Restrooms and drinking water are available on the boats. Island restrooms, showers, drinking water, and shaded picnic tables provided.

Is there a ferry service to Ship Island?

The island is one of four barrier islands approximately 11 miles south of Gulfport. The islands are accessible by boat only. Ship Island Excursions offers the only authorized public ferry service.

Where is the boat ride to Ship Island?

The boats are located in the Gulfport Yacht Harbor at the intersection of Hwy. 90 and Hwy. 49. In addition to experiencing interesting sights along a route that crosses the Mississippi Sound, you are almost sure to spot Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins during the approximate 1-hour boat ride to the island.

What are the attractions of the Ship Island Excursions?

Travel to a special place where attractions include: outstanding beaches, beautiful water and clean gulf air. Locals and visitors consistently rate the 22-mile round trip to Ship Island as the coast’s premier beach experience.

What to do on Ship Island in Mississippi?

Experience Mississippi’s finest beaches! Swim, snorkel, boogie board, picnic, explore, or just relax, and leave the transportation to us. Ship Island is part of Gulf Islands National Seashore and one of five Mississippi barrier islands located approximately 11 miles south of Gulfport and Biloxi.